There are many issues relating to the stomach. These can range widely in presentation and how severe it is. The most common stomach problems are hernias and hemorrhoids. Lastly, hernias and hemorrhoids are some of the most commonly reported stomach problems. These account for millions of doctor visits every year. However, by becoming familiar with the problems, you can lower your risk of getting them. But if these issues occur, there are a lot of natural treatments to help.

1. Gastrointestinal Dysfunctions
There are many issues relating to the stomach. These can range widely in presentation
and how severe it is. The most common stomach problems are hernias and
hemorrhoids. While severe cases may require surgery, we can treat most with lifestyle
modifications. You can use non-drug strategies tomanage or even prevent stomach
issues.
Hernias 1-4
A hernia occurs when an internal organ pokes through a weak spot in the muscle. It is
possible for them to form nearly anywhere. But, they usually occur when the muscle is
weak or naturally thin.
Causes and Symptoms of Hernias
There is a list of factors that may contribute to a hernia. Those with family history may
have a higher risk. Frequent strain on the body can lead to a hernia. Things like lifting
heavy objects, intense exercise, and coughing can strain the body. Past injuries or

2. surgeries may leave a weak spot in the body. 1-4 Men are at higher risk; lifetime risk of
groin hernia is 27% in men compared to 3% in women. 5
Not all hernias cause symptoms. The symptoms you have will be different depending on
severity and the location. But, pain, heaviness, and aching are the most common
symptoms. 1, 2, 4
Natural Hernia Remedies1-4
There are many natural hernia remedies that can help with treating and preventing
hernias. Things like lifting heavy objects properly and warming up before exercise can
be helpful. This can help to prevent injuries and muscle weakening. Reducing the
pressure on the stomach is helpful. Like eating smaller meals and not lying down after a
large meal. Other natural remedies include having a healthy weight and getting enough
exercise. You should complete 20-30 minutes of exercise a day. Yoga can improve
strength and flexibility. This it cab be a good option to prevent hernias.
Hemorrhoids

3. A hemorrhoid is when the blood vessel in the rectum get larger. These are some of the
most commonly encountered stomach issues. They occur in over 10 million people in
the United States. 7
Causes and Symptoms of Hemorrhoids 6-8
Hemorrhoids usually caused by pressure on the stomach. Constipation, straining during
a bowel movement, and pregnancy can place pressure on the stomach.
Symptoms depend on the severity and location of the hemorrhoid. However, the
appearance of blood in the stool or on toilet paper is not uncommon. This can be seen in
more advanced stages. External hemorrhoids cause pain and itching. But, internal
hemorrhoids rarely have symptoms.
Natural Hemorrhoid Treatment Strategies
Lifestyle and diet changes can help to prevent, manage, and treat hemorrhoids. In fact,
the guidelines doctors use for treatment recommend natural strategies as the first
treatment choice. 6
Eating fiber, around 25-30 grams a day is helpful. This can reduce symptoms by 47%
and bleeding by 50%.9 A good sources of fiber is whole grains, vegetables, beans, nuts,
and seeds. You should also drinking water throughout the day. Lastly, avoid straining
and sitting for a long time during when you use the bathroom. 7
Hernias and hemorrhoids are some of the most commonly reported stomach problems.
These account for millions of doctor visits every year. But, by becoming familiar with the

4. problems, you can lower your risk of getting them. But if these issues occur, there are a
lot of natural treatment tohelp.
References
1. Inguinal Hernia. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/inguinal-
hernia/symptoms-causes/syc-20351547. Published February 26, 2019. Accessed October
12, 2019.
2. Hiatal Hernia. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hiatal-
hernia/symptoms-causes/syc-20373379. Published March 10, 2018. Accessed October
11, 2019.
3. LeBlanc KE, et al. Inguinal hernias: diagnosis and management. American Family
Physician. 2013; 87(12): 844-848.
4. Hiatal Hernia. Dynamed. https://www.dynamed.com/topics/dmp~AN~T116557. Updated
November 30, 2018. Accessed October 11, 2019.
5. Fitzgibbons RJ Jr, Forse RA. Groin hernias in adults. Clinical Practice. 2015; 372(8):
756-63
6. Davis BR, et al. The American society of colon and rectal surgeons clinical practice
guidelines for the management of hemorrhoids. National Center for Biotechnology
Information. 2018; 61(3): 284-292
7. Hemorrhoids. Dynamed. https://www-dynamed.com/topics/dmp~AN~T116475. Updated
November 30, 2018. Accessed October 12, 2019.
8. Hemorrhoids. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hemorrhoids
/symptoms-causes/syc-20360268. Published July 3, 2019. Accessed October 13, 2019.
9. Alonso-Coello P, et al. Fiber for the treatment of hemorrhoids complications: a
systematic review and meta-analysis. The American Journal of Gastroenterology. 2006;
101(1): 181-188.